Centre for Human Developmental Science

The Cardiff University Centre for Human Development Science provides opportunities for research and training in the study of human development.

We carry out research and training in the study of human development from conception to adulthood.

Our research and training is focused on child development and adult health and we take a lifespan approach to the study of human development in social contexts.

We deliver an interdisciplinary research approach that unites a developmental science agenda from psychology with knowledge in education, health and social care, bringing contributions from policy and practice stakeholders across these sectors.

We work closely with intervention scientists and policymakers in Welsh Government and have the capacity to translate rigorous research into effective interventions and policy guidelines that can improve people’s quality of life.

Facilities

We are based in the Cardiff University Centre for Human Development Science (CUCHDS) - a state of the art facility containing specially designed laboratory space for studies of children and adults.

Our facilities include:

sensory room
observation labs
neuroimaging labs (EEG and fNIRS) or (electroencephalography and functional near-infrared spectroscopy)
Neurodevelopment Assessment Unit (NDAU)
Waterloo Foundation-funded unit for children referred with developmental issues
mobile eye tracking
dedicated teaching and research space.

Research

CUCHDS has united already well-established research centres and programmes into one centre for better research collaboration. Key groups and programmes include:

The centre also offers new initiatives in developmental neuroscience and multidisciplinary studies of children’s well-being.

Impact

Through our Wales Adoption Cohort Study, we have provided evidence for the design, implementation and evaluation of the Adopting Together Service.
Computerised emotion training is now offered to 5-7 year olds who have come through the Neuro-Development Assessment Unit (NDAU) to improve psychosocial functioning in children with emotional and behavioural problems. It also is used in intervention and prevention programmes in the Netherlands, Switzerland and Germany.